Why Trauma Keeps You in Survival Mode & PTSD Recovery

In this episode of Narcissist Apocalypse, Brandon talks with Rebound Health co-founders Raeva Kumar and Dr. Erin Berenz about how trauma can leave the brain and body reacting as though the danger is still happening. They explain how survival mode can appear through hypervigilance, numbness, exhaustion, avoidance, irritability, and difficulties within relationships. The conversation explores prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, two evidence-based treatments for PTSD. Raeva also shares her personal recovery story, while Dr. Berenz explains how reprocessing traumatic memories and gradually facing avoided situations can help survivors regain safety, choice, and control over their lives.